The Happiest People of All

Learn who's the most content in the country

Ever wonder who's most likely to have a smile (almost) permanently plastered on their faces? Research proves that these folks have mastered the art of being happy.

1. The cheeriest people in America? HAWAIIANS, says a recent Gallup poll. (All those beautiful sunsets and beaches can't hurt.)

2. Turns out, BIOTECH WORKERS are the most satisfied employees in the country, according to job-search website CareerBliss.com. Next on their list: customer service reps and teachers.

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3. Life does get better as we age (or maybe we just appreciate it more). According to a Stanford University study, OLDER AMERICANS are the most content generation, with satisfaction peaking at 70.

4. PEOPLE WHO ENJOY CREATIVE PASTIMES, like visiting museums or performing in local theater, are singing a happy tune, as London School of Economics professor George MacKerron is finding in his ongoing iPhone survey the Mappiness Project.

5. How much money do we need to be happy? According to Princeton economist Angus Deaton's research, PEOPLE WHO EARN $75,000 have reached the plateau beyond which more money has no measurable effect on day-to-day contentment.